“The mouth speaks what the heart is full of “ (Matt. 12:34). “The soothing tongue is a tree of life” (Prov.15:4). Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body (Prov.16:24). “A wise tongue brings healing” (Prov. 12:18). “The Sovereign LORD has given me a well-instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary” (Isa. 50:4)
Lord Jesus, appropriately so, all these Scriptures make us think of you. You told us your heart is gentle and lowly (Matt.11:29). No wonder your words are always grace-seasoned, life-giving, and heart-righting.
Even your rebukes give us encouragement and hope. You aren’t just gracious with “bruised reeds and smoldering wicks.” You are also merciful when, like Jonah, we are pouty, angry, and self-absorbed; or like Job, confused by your ways and tired of life; or like Martha, disappointed you didn’t show up on our timetable (John 11:21), or like Peter, when we address you with two words we’ll always end up eating, “Never Lord” (Matt.16:22; John 13:8).
Jesus, as you spoke our world into existence, and sustain everything by the power of your word (Heb. 1:3), please speak kindness, gentleness, and compassion deep inside us. For our hearts are the factory of our thoughts and the fountain of our words. Fill our hearts with your truth, goodness, and beauty.
As the tongue has the power of life and death, please use our words today to encourage and bless, heal and help others. Hurt people don’t have to hurt other people. Grant us quick repentances when we choose otherwise. Thank you for your patience with us, Jesus. So Very Amen
